The holidays bring visitors to your home, packages to your doorstep and, for some businesses, a company party. A quick insurance check now can help you avoid surprises later. Here are a few things to review before your calendar fills up.
Before guests arrive
When friends or family visit, accidents can happen. If someone slips on a wet floor or trips over holiday decorations, the liability portion of your homeowners or renters insurance typically helps cover their injuries and your legal defense if you’re sued. Many policies also include a small amount of medical payments coverage for guests, regardless of who was at fault.
- Check your liability limit. Some policies have limits of $100,000 or $300,000, and a serious injury could cost more. An umbrella policy adds protection beyond your home and auto coverage. We can help you review your limits.
- Think about pets. If your dog gets nervous around groups, give it a quiet place away from the activity. It’s also worth checking whether your policy has any restrictions on dog-related claims.
- Serving alcohol? In California, hosts generally aren’t responsible for what adult guests do after drinking. That protection doesn’t apply if you knowingly serve someone under 21 in your home, so keep drinks away from younger guests.
Protecting gifts and deliveries
Homeowners and renters insurance generally covers stolen belongings, including packages taken from your doorstep. But the deductible matters. If a $150 package disappears and your deductible is $1,000, filing a claim usually doesn’t make sense.
- Have packages delivered to a locker, your workplace or a neighbor who’s home.
- Request a signature for expensive packages.
- Giving jewelry, a watch or another valuable gift? Some policies limit what they’ll pay for stolen jewelry unless it’s specifically listed on the policy. We can help you decide whether to add it.
Planning a company holiday party?
If you’re hosting an event for employees, there are a few details to sort out before invitations go out.
- Serving alcohol? Consider a licensed bartender or caterer and ask whether they carry liquor liability insurance. Your business’s general liability policy may offer some protection, but the details vary, so it’s worth checking.
- Employee injuries. In California, workers’ comp generally doesn’t cover injuries at a voluntary, off-duty party, but it can when attending is expected or required. If you’re not sure how your coverage would respond, ask us before the party.
- Getting home safely. Rideshare codes or a designated driver plan are simple options.
- Renting a venue? Read the agreement for insurance requirements. Some venues ask for specific liability limits or to be listed on your policy. We can help with a certificate of insurance.
One last check before year-end
Did you buy a car, remodel your home, hire employees or add business equipment this year? It’s a good time to make sure your coverage reflects those changes.
Call Let’s Insure at (877) 851-7867 or text (408) 805-3605. We’re happy to review your coverage with you.
Happy holidays from all of us at Let’s Insure!
This article is general information, not legal advice. Coverage depends on your policy. Contact us with questions about your situation.
